Just picked up my first paddle (Bencher BY-1) after using a straight key for two months. I'm having trouble with the spacing - sometimes my letters run together or I get extra dits/dahs. Is this normal for beginners, or am I missing something with the adjustment?

My keyer is set to 15 WPM and I'm trying to practice basic letters first. Any suggestions welcome!

Welcome to paddles! The spacing issues are totally normal - your timing instincts from the straight key don't quite match the paddle rhythm yet. Try slowing down to 12 WPM and focus on clean letter spacing. Practice single letters repeatedly before attempting words.

I had the exact same problem with my BY-1 when I started! Check your paddle spacing - too tight and you'll get accidental contacts. Also make sure you're not squeezing too hard between your thumb and finger.

Take it slow and practice until your wrist and fingers get the habit and you don't have to think about counting dits and dahs but feel the rhythm of each letter. The muscle memory takes time to develop - give it a few weeks of daily practice.